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We all know that Microsoft have upped the amount of data they collect on Windows users in the latest Windows 10 versions.

They're trying to copy their big rivals, Apple and Google, and focus on earning money from advertising. That's why you see adverts for new Apps appear in the Start menu, even if you've never shown any interest in installing the Apps in question.

By using Windows 10 and the Edge browser, Microsoft can build up a profile of the kinds of things you view on the Internet and what you use your PC for. Added to this, because you sign into all your Windows 10 devices using the same Microsoft account, Microsoft can link what you search for on all of your devices.
They know the Apps you use and what is installed on your PC.

But what exactly does Microsoft know about you, and what information do they collect?

That's a very good question and, until now, Microsoft have been cagey about answering it.

However, it looks like they’re having a change of heart. They've brought out a new tool, called the Windows Diagnostic Data Viewer, which will give you a breakdown of everything the operating system sends to Microsoft.

The company claims it will display:

Common data, such as the operating system name, version, device ID, device class, diagnostic level selection and so on.

Device connectivity and configuration information, including the device properties and capabilities, preferences and settings, peripherals, and device network information.

Product and service performance data that shows device health, performance and reliability data, movie consumption functionality on the device and device file queries. It’s important to note that this functionality is not intended to capture user viewing or listening habits.

Product and service usage data, including details about how you use your device, operating system, applications, and services.

Software setup, such as installed applications and installation history, and device update information.

The tool isn't available yet, but a preview version should be released in the next few weeks, and the final version will be available from the Windows Store.

Let's hope it is released soon, and we can all check what Microsoft knows about us.